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  • The Burnham Ferry 2025 Guide: Wallasea Island to Burnham-on-Crouch

    Everything you need to know about the Burnham Ferry - 2025 Guide The Burnham Ferry is a passenger ferry that runs between Wallasea Island and Burnham-on-Crouch. We had a wonderful experience taking the Burnham Ferry from the Essex Marina on Wallasea Island to Burnham-on-Crouch. The short five minute journey was truly stunning. Mark was so friendly and went above and beyond to make our trip memorable for the children. Amazing service! If you want to see more about the Burnham Ferry - you can check out the Burnham Ferry Reel on Instagram - Watch the Burnham Ferry Reel on the Parks of Essex Instagram Page Wallasea Island Wallasea Island is a peaceful, protected RSPB nature reserve . Perfect for walks along the salflats and incredible bird-watching opportunities. Wallasea Island has limited facilties and is a 2km walk from Essex Marina, where you can pick up the Burnham Ferry. Read more about Wallasea Island Burnham-on-Crouch When you depart the ferry you enter Burnham Riverside Park. There are beautiful walks along the quayside at this Country park. There are also three great play areas. The most recent play area was added in 2024. All play areas are close to each other and there is play equipment to suit all ages! Burnham Highstreet is full of plenty of places to eat and drink and an array of independent shops. Read more about Riverside Park 2025 UPDATE - Burnham Ferry has a NEW OWNER In March 2025, the Burnham Ferry Facebook page announced that Skipper Mark had received a life changing medical diagnosis. and therefore the Burnham Ferry was looking for a new owner. We would like to thank Mark for making our trips on the Burnham Ferry to memorable and wish him all the best. Shortly after it was announced that the business had been purchased by Mark Peters of DAWN TIDE II Charters .   The Burnham Ferry opened for the season on 4th May 2025. For the latest updates check out the Burnham Ferry Facebook Page . Where can you catch the Burnham Ferry? The Burnham Ferry runs between Essex Marina on Wallasea Island and in 2025 will be returning to Town Quay in Burnham-on- Crouch. The departure/pick up point is only a short ten minute walk away from the playground at Riverside Park . The route from Riverside Park playground to the Burnham ferry landing spot passes through town, where there are lots of great cafes and restaurants. Taking the Ferry from Wallasea Island Essex Marina, Wallasea Island, Rochford, SS4 2HF Car parking charges apply, Essex Marina charges - 30 minutes to 1 hour - £1, Up to 24 hours - £2 Taking the Ferry from Burnham-on-Crouch In 2025 will be returning to Town Quay in Burnham-on- Crouch. Does the Burnham Ferry run all year? The ferry runs until the end of September. When does the Burnham Ferry reopen for the 2025? The Burnam Ferry opened for the season in May 2025. What days does the Burnham Ferry Run? For the latest updates and check if the Burnham Ferry is running, check out the Burnham Ferry Facebook Page .   What time is the ferry? The ferry operates on a dial-a-ride basis between 10am and 6pm. Call 07704 060482 when you are at the Marina and ready to be picked up. How much does the Burnham Ferry cost? Cash and card payment accepted Fares each way Adults and Children £5.50 per person Dogs £3 Bikes £3 How long is the ferry ride from Wallasea Island to Burnham? The journey takes approximately 5 minutes Are dogs allowed? Well behaved dogs on leads welcome, £3 per dog. For the latest updates check out the Burnham Ferry Facebook Page 10 Popular Days Out Posts Take a trip on a UNICORN at this Park - The Magical Unicorn Lake Compairing the TWO Essex Gruffalo Trails Mersea Island with Children! The Best Playgrounds and Play Areas on Mersea Island Top 10 Playgrounds in Southend-on-Sea Visit this Park with a FREE FARM The Burnham Ferry: Wallasea Island to Burnham-on-Crouch The Best Woodland Playgrounds in Essex The Essex Peter Rabbit Trail The Longest Play Trail in Essex Everything you need to know about the Stick Man Trail Post Updated February 2025

  • May Half Term Events at Essex Parks

    CLICK HERE for May Half Term Guide 2025 2023 The third and final bank holiday of May and the May School Holidays! Here are some activities and events happening at parks, playgrounds and nature reserves across Essex this May Half Term. This post will be updated as more events are added, so make sure you regularly check back regularly. Click the park name for direct links to book events where applicable. Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 70 Parks in Essex. Abberton Reservoir CO2 0EU 29th May - Wild Family Fun - Go wild and explore the habitats of Abberton. Includes pond dipping, bug hunting, seed bomb making, toasted marshmallows and a trail. £8 31st May - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 1st June - Make Your Own Nature Journal - Adventure round the nature reserve looking for wildlife and flowers to provide inspiration. Practice some drawing techniques and try water colours. £8 Bedfords Park, RM4 1QH 30th May - Superworm Storytime - Come and read Superworm, join in some worm activities and crafts as well as having fun with the mud kitchen, bug hunting and more. £7 1st June - Bug Bonaza - Explore the woods with us to hunt for all sorts of creepy crawlies, and make your own to take home! £7 2nd June - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 Belfairs Woods, SS9 4LR 30th May - Storytime Elmer - Bring a cuddly teddy and a snack to help you enjoy the book and then take part in some fun wild child activities. £5 31st May - Wildcard Wednesday - From wild art, bug hunting, learning tracks & signs. Choose from a whole range of activities and take part in free flow activities to infuse in the outdoors!  £7 31st May - Drop-in Meadow Madness - Discover which species of bugs, spiders and other minibeasts make their home in the meadows. Plus create your own grasshead friend to take home with you and watch grow! £5 1st June - Woodland Explorers - For all ages free-play activities including slackline walking, bug hunting, woodland crafts, tool use, mud kitchen and more. £7 2nd June - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 SHOP OUR FAVOURITES Belhus Woods, RM15 4XJ 27th May - 11th June Pick up a trail booklet from the café for free! Turn your kids into mini explorers. Follow the route (loosely marked in the booklets), chase through trees, linger around the lakes and zoom across the meadows. Hunt the trail markers and find the letters to make the mystery word. Discover fun and fascinating facts about Wetlands and wildlife, and see what you can spot along the way. Free Cudmore Grove, CO5 8UE 27th May - 11th June - Follow the route (loosely marked in the booklets), chase through trees, linger around the lakes and zoom across the meadows. Hunt the trail markers and find the letters to make the mystery word. Discover fun and fascinating facts about Wetlands and wildlife, and see what you can spot along the way. Free Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW 27th May - 11th June - Head to Lakes car park and turn your kids into mini explorers. Follow the route (loosely marked in the booklets), chase through trees, linger around the lakes and zoom across the meadows. Hunt the trail markers and find the letters to make the mystery word. Discover fun and fascinating facts about Wetlands and wildlife, and see what you can spot along the way. Free Daws Hall Nature Reserve, CO8 5EX 31st May - Pond Dipping, Minibeast Hunt and Crafts - Join in some Pond Dipping, Minibeast Hunting, marshmallows over the fire and a craft activity. £8 Fingringhoe Wick, CO5 7DN 1st June - Bushcraft Drop Off - Aimed at children aged 11-18. Start by lighting a fire using natural materials foraged from the woodland. Set up tarp shelters and cook snacks on an open fire. The afternoon will be spent using tools and learning woodland crafts. £25 2nd June - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 Flatford, CO7 6UL 30th May - Spring Nature Day - Caft activities, trails to follow and nature clues to hunt. £3 Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP Free family activities this half term between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Go Nuts for Doughnuts 30th May - Decorating Doughnuts 31st May - Doughnut Crafts 1st June - Doughnut Trail and Taste Hainault Country Park, IG7 4QN 31st May - Wild Adventures - Campfire Cooking - Lets see what the forest has to offer this spring and identify edible plants! £5 1st June - Forest Explorers - Birds of Prey - Come and find out about these powerful hunters that live in Hainault Forest. Identify them from their sick and work out what they've been eating for their dinner! £5 Hanningfield Reservoir, CM11 1WT 30th May - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 31st May - Pond Dipping - Come and take part in a drop in session and have a go at pond dipping. No need to prebook. £4 1st June - Family Forest Adventure - Join us for a session spent in the woodland. Discover and play as we build dens and explore the forest, before toasting a snack on our fire. £7 1st June - Wild Night Out - An exclusive evening to experience some of our nocturnal wildlife, including pond dipping, small mammal trapping and bat detecting. £7 2nd June - Nature Tots Taster - Discover and learn through a range of fun wildlife themed activities from bug hunting and mud play to natural painting and stick creatures. £7 Hyde Hall - CM3 8ET Get sowing this May half term at RHS Garden Hyde Hall and learn how to grow your own food. Admission charges apply 27th May - 4th June - Sow Awesome Trail - Follow the grow-your-own-themed trail around the garden and see if you can spot the fruit and vegetable superheroes along the way. Discover their amazing powers and find out how you can grow them at home. 30th May - Storytelling - Enjoy an interactive storytelling walk around the garden with Mike Dodsworth. 31st May - Salad Growing - From seed to salad, come along to our growing workshops and plant some salad to grow at home, and when it’s ready, to harvest and eat! £2.50 per child, pre-booking required 1st June - Pips and Seeds Workshop - Explore the insides of fruits by taking out the seeds, sowing them in pots and watching them grow into plants. £2.50 per child, pre-booking required Langdon, SS16 6EJ 30th May - 30 Days Wild Drop In - Join us in the meadow for some bug hunting and other wild activities to celebrate the start of 30 Days Wild. £4 31st May - Nature Tots Taster - Discover and learn through a range of fun wildlife themed activities from bug hunting and mud play to natural painting and stick creatures. £4 31st May - Family Forest Adventure - Join us for a session spent in the woodland. Discover and play as we build dens and explore the forest, before toasting a snack on our fire. £7 1st June - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 2nd June - Storytime Owl Babies - Come and enjoy the classic story, 'Owl Babies' and explore the woods. Join in activities, including: making your own owl, building nests, acting out the story as well as our usual minibeast hunting, mud kitchen and much more. £7 Marsh Farm Country Park, CM3 5WP 27th May - 11th June - Wetlands Trail - Head to Marsh Farm Country Park car park (not the farm attraction, carry on past this, until you reach the end of the road) and turn your kids into mini explorers. Follow the route beside the Fenn Creek (loosely marked in the booklets), hunt the trail markers and find the letters to make the mystery word. Discover fun and fascinating facts about wetlands and wildlife, and see what you can spot along the way. Free The Naze, CO14 8LE 30th May - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 31st May/2nd June - Family Fossil Discovery - Learn about The Naze geology and where to find fossils before heading out on a group fossil hunt. £3 Parndon Woods, CM19 4SF 1st June - Bat Safari - A guided walk around the woodland with bat detectors. Question and answers and information stands from Essex Bat Group. £2 Priory Park, SS2 6NB 24th May - 4th June - Circus Zyair - O ver thirty adrenaline fuelled performers from all across the globe. Fearless acrobats and daredevil stuntmen guarantee maximum thrills. Tickets from £12.99 Free Event Music in the Park Event - every weekend until September! Promenade Park, CM9 5JQ 26th May - 4th June - Downs' Traditional Steam Fair - Whether it's the magic of the steam driven Gallopers, the dizzying fun as you spin at speed on the Chair-o-Planes, the panoramic heights of the Big Wheel and Helter Skelter enjoy the fun & games. Roding Valley Meadows Nature Reserve , IG7 6DP 31st May - Pond Dipping - Discover who calls our pond their home! All equipment provided, including pond dipping nets, trays, and ID sheets. £5 1st June - Drop Off Day - Get back to nature! Explore wildlife and learn bush craft skills at our school holiday drop-off days. £25 Thames Chase, RM14 3NS 30th May - Music Making - During this fun packed session all participants are provided with an instrument and will learn about sound, rhythm and playing a melody reading music. £3 31st May - Minibeast and Flower Crafts - During this drop in craft session you will be able to make your own mini beast, create your own bird and design a flower all to take home. £3 Thorndon Country Park, CM13 3RZ 30th May - Nature Printing - print your own floral design on a canvas bag to take home, and try creating a seed head clay coaster. £10 Thurrock Thameside Na ture Park, SS17 0RN 31st May - Storytime We're Going on a Bear Hunt - Bring a cuddly teddy and a snack to help you enjoy the book and then take part in some fun wild child activities. £7 1st June - Mad about Minibeasts - Search for the bugs that call our reserve a home, get creative by making them a habitat fit for you garden or a craft that resembles your favourite minibeast £7 Wat Tyler, SS14 4UH 30th May - Pond Dipping 31st May - Soft Archery and Pond Dipping 1st June - Cottage Tour, Soft Archery and Pond Dipping 2nd June - Soft Archery and Pond Dipping £6 per child, £4.20 sibling, £2 adult. Call 01268 205267 to book. Check back for What's On at Essex Parks Every Month

  • 70+ Family Friendly Easter Events in Essex (including Easter Egg Hunts and Trails!) - 2025 Guide

    Are you looking for things to do in Essex this Easter? Welcome to the Parks of Essex Easter Events 2025 Guide. This Guide is full of Easter themed days out in Essex, including Easter Trails, Egg Hunts and FREE Easter events in Essex. Read on to find out what's on in Essex this Easter! Character Trails in Essex (featuring much loved bunnies!) Peter Rabbit Trail Easter is the perfect time to visit the Peter Rabbit Trail, which is a permanent feature at Langdon Nature Discovery Centre. The Peter Rabbit Character Trail features several beautifully carved wooden sculptures. You can find all your favourite Peter Rabbit characters on this nature reserve! Visit the Essex Peter Rabbit Trail Guess How Much I Love You Trail NEW for 2025! The Nutbrown Hare family from the beautiful Guess How Much I Love You book series has hopped over to RHS Hyde Hall . The Guess How Much I Love You Trail is a series of sweet, informative activity boards and photo opportunities. The trail is included with admission to the Royal Horticultural Society Gardens. You can find out all the details by checking out our blog post on the NEW Guess How Much I Love You Trail! Easter Egg Hunts and Easter Trails in Essex - Easter 2025 Abberton Eggcelent Easter Trail - 18th - 21st April Essex Wildlife Trust Abberton Reservoir  is a great Nature Discovery Park. As well as the great wildlife spotting, kids will also love natural play area and the Bramley Hedge woodland character trail, which is a permenant trail. This Easter Abberton Reservoir is running an Easter Trail, with added pond dipping! Tickets are to be purchased in advance, but you can drop in anytime between 10.30am and 3.30pm on the day of your choosing. £8 Belfairs Easter Trail 17th - 21st April There are plenty of amazing ancient woodland to explore at Belfairs Woods in Leigh-on-Sea ! Children will love den building, splashing in the streams and puddles and also the challenging wooden adventure playground! This Easter weekend join the self led egg trail!Complete the trail through the woods, answer the clues and collect your prize. Drop in, maps £3 from the visitor centre. Visit the Easter Trail and Adventure Playground at Belfairs Woods Cammas Hall Easter Trail 5th - 20th April Track down the hidden eggs and crack the seasonal clues! Keep your eyes peeled for the Easter Bunny, who’ll be hopping about with sweet treats! Children's tickets including a game card, character encounters, a treat prize and access to outdoor seasonal games area and photo opportunities. Children £7.50 and Adults £3.95. Epping Ongar Railway The longest Easter Egg hunt in Essex! 16th, 18th - 21st A 5 Mile Easter Egg Hunt – but let the train take the strain! Children are invited to hop on board the heritage steam train and follow clues to help him locate eggs hidden along the length of the railway, which stretches an impressive five miles - the longest Easter Egg Hunt in Essex! Fingringhoe Wick Easter Trail 18th - 20th April Eggsciting Easte r! Complete the Easter trail to claim your prize, then use natural materials to create an Easter craft from natural materials to take home. Tickets are to be purchased in advance, but you can drop in anytime between 10am and 3pm on the day of your choosing. £8 Play Area at Fingringhoe Wick Flatford Easter Egg Hunt 5th - 21st April Make your way along the trail and find nature-inspired activities for the whole family. Prices are £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, pencil, bunny ears and chocolate treat. The Gibberd Garden Easter Monday Trail 21st April Easter Monday at the Garden! Expect fun filled games, face painting and an Easter trail! Entry Adults £5, Children £1, Under 5s Free. Trail extra £1, face painting £5. Hanningfield Reservoir Hoppy Easter Trail  7th April Hanningfield Reservoir is home to the Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Discovery Centre. The Wind in the WIllows Trail  starts at the visitor centre - there are a series of brilliant wooden character sculptures and brass rubbings along the woodland trail. There is also a great play area on the other side of the wood at Hanningfield Waterside Park . At the start of the Easter Holidays you can join the Hoppy Easter Trail. Follow the trail map around Hanningfield to find our different activity stations! An Easter-themed adventure full of natural crafts. £13 Harlow Town Park - Pets Corner Easter Trail 7th - 30th April You can find Pets Corner in the grounds Harlow Town Park, Essex. This great farm is FREE to enter, donatio ns are welcome to support the running of this farm. Check out our Guide to Visiting this FREE Farm ! This Easter there will be an Easter Trail running every day between 7th and 30th April . There is a NEW enclosure at Pets Corner - the FREE FARM in Town Park, Harlow Hedingham Castle Egg Trail and Woodland Fairy Trail 6th - 9th April There is lots of this Easter at Hedingham Castle including Easter Trails, birds of prey, puppet show and medieval knight battles. Choose from two trails - the Enchanted Egg Hunt and Woodland Fairy Trail. Entry fees for the Castle Adults £11, Children 10, Under 4s Free. High Woods Country Park Easter Trail 5th - 21st April Check out the High Woods in Numbers Trail! Complete the trail and find out about the creatures that call High Woods home. Trail maps available from the Visitor Centre for £1. Wednesday - Sunday between 10am to 4pm.  Hyde Hall Giant Egg Hunt 5th - 21st April If you are wondering what's on this Easter at Hyde Hall, the giant Easter egg hunt is back! Crack the codes as you find colouful eggs hidden across the garden. Admission fees apply, plus £2.50 for trail. There is an Egg Hunt at RHS Hyde Hall. Make sure you stop by the Hyde Hall Play Area too! Langdon Easter Trail  5th - 20th April Langdon Nature Discovery Centre is maintained by the Essex Wildlife Trust. It is the home of the Peter Rabbit wooden sculpture trail and there are also lots of other great events this Easter, including the Easter Trail! Pick up a map from inside the Nature Discovery Centre and venture outside to complete the Easter trail. Once you've completed It head back to the centre to collect a prize! £4 per child. No booking required. Layer Marney Tower 20th - 21st April There are lots of great Easter Events at Layer Marney Tower during Spring including Lamb visits and the Easter Trail! Join the famous Egg and Spoon Race, bring the toddlers for an Easter Egg Hunt and book yourself onto a tractor ride to see the lambs. Entry Adults £12, Children £7 The Naze Easter Egg Hunt 18th - 20th April Follow the trail around the Naze to claim your Easter prize! Then head back at the centre for some natural craft. Booking required, £8. This is a drop in session, once you have purchased a ticket you can come any time between 11am and 3pm. The Naze nature reserve has beautiful, coastal walking trails. It is the home of the iconic Naze Tower. The Naze cliffs are also brilliant for fossil hunting! Check out our Guide - Where to find Fossils in Essex . Thurrock Thameside Nature Park Easter in the Woods 18th April Essex Wildlife Trust's Thameside Nature Park is amazing for families, walkers and little explorers. The reserve has nature hides to sit and observe birds and nature from, walking trails and a visitor centre with a viewing deck. Small children will love the b oat themed playground and there is also a wooden assault course for bigger kids. Easter in the Woods - activities include an Easter Egg Hunt, Easter-themed natural crafts, and various other fun activities. Booking required £9 Free Easter Events in Essex Danbury Village Spring Fair & Easter Trail 5th April 2025 Celebrate the arrival of spring with family fun at the Danbury Village Spring Fair & Easter Trail at the Danbury Leisure Centre! There will be activities for all ages, a vibrant market, and an exciting Easter Trail. There will be Easter Crafts and face painting. Essex Country Parks Animal Mysteries Trail - 5th - 21st April The FREE Animal Mysteries Easter Trails are returning to the Essex Country Parks and Sites this Easter school holidays - Weald, Thorndon, Great Notley, Hadeigh, Cressing Temple Barns, Cudmore Grove, Danbury. Help the Easter Bunny find all the missing eggs Pick up a free trail booklet from the available cafés or download the trail sheet straight to your phone. Take Part in the FREE Animal Mysteries Trail, which runs around the play trail at Great Notley Country Park Hadleigh Park Free Family Activities 8th - Fun with Clay 9th - Hot Cross Bunnies 10th - Easter Bunny Trail 15th - Jelly Bead Pray Bracelets 16th - Edible Easter Garden 17th - Holy Week in a Box Brentwood Easter Trail - 7th to 21st April Explore Brentwood High Street, Hutton Road in Shenfield and Ingatestone High Street as part of the free Easter Bunny Trail. Find 10 Easter Bunnies on display in business windows. Easter Bunny meet and greet and crafts - Brentwood 10th, Shenfield 11th, Ingatestone 17th. Salary Brook, Greenstead - Pond Dipping 16th April Join the Rangers for this free drop-in pond dipping session at Salary Brook and discover what creatures hide under the surface. Drop in anytime between 1.30pm and 3pm. Salary Brook, Greenstead - Wild Woodland Fun 15th April Meet at the pond near the Buffett Way play area. Enjoy den building and woodland games. Drop in anytime between 1.30pm and 3pm. What's On in Essex During the Easter Holidays Children's Events During Easter Half Term 2025 Abberton Reservoir CO2 0EU   Essex Wildlife Trust Abberton Reservoir has lots of family friendly Easter activities. As mentioned above the Easter Trail also features pond dipping! You also check out the permanent Bramley Hedge Trail. Other events include 8th - Spring Explorers £8 9th and 16th - Wilder Holiday Club £37 10th - Easter Tots £8 14th - Super Scientists £9 Click Here to Book Events at Abberton Reservoir Cammas Hall, CM22 7JT Cammas Hall Farm reopens for the season this Easter. As well as the Bunny Trail, you can also find Footgolf, Tractor Rides and Animal Encounters at Cammas Hall this Easter. We can't wait for the Pick Your Own Fruit to open too! Click to Book Events at Cammas Hall Daws Hall, CO8 5EX   Daws Hall is a 25 acre private nature reserve on the Essex/Sussex Border. Daws Hall regularly run school holiday events. This Spring you can also head along to the family friendly Bat evening! 9th and 16th - Pond dipping, Minibeast Hunt + Craft - Take part in some minibeast hunting and pond dipping with a picnic and marshmallows by the fire at Lunchtime. Have fun, get out and about and maybe even learn something new! £8 11th - What's That Bat - Adults £10, Children £5 Click Here to Book Events at Daws Hall Deadham Vale Vineyard Teddy Bear Picnic and Easter Trail - An Easter themed trail at Dedham Vale Vineyard! Embark on an exciting adventure around the grounds as you hunt for the Easter bunny. Follow the trail, complete the challenges, and be rewarded with a delicious Easter egg at the finish line! After the trail, relax and enjoy a charming teddy bear picnic with your family and friends. £10 per child. East Anglian Railway Museum, CO6 2DS You can find East Anglian Railway Museum at Chappel and Wakes Colne Station. The Museum is open all year round on weekends and Wednesday. There are several special steam days throughout the year! If you are heading to the museum, it is worth checking out Chappel Viaduct Playground! This free play park can be found right next to the impressive Viaduct, built in 1849! 18th to 21st - Meet Thomas! Unlimited rides on Thomas, Percy and Daisy! Join singalongs and storytelling sessions. Head to the railway themed play park and enjoy garden games. Click Here to Book Events at East Anglican Railway Museum Check out Chappel Viaduct Playground, close to the East Anglian Railway Museum! Fingringhoe Wick, CO5 7DN There are amazing birdwatching opportunites at this Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Discovery Centre. Explore bird hides with estuary views. There is a great play area and there are regular family friendly events hosted by EWT. If you are looking for an Easter Hunt, join the Eggsciting Easte r Trail. There are also these other great events: 9th - Nature Adventurers £8 10th and 17th - Wilder Holiday Club £37 11th - Pond Dipping £5.60 14th - Campfire Creations £8 16th - CBBC Deadly Scene Investigation £5.60 Hainault Forest, IG7 4QN Hainault Forest Country Park is great for a family day out - there are so many things to do! You can find Foxborrows Farm (which is free to enter), the Hainault Thomas Train Ride  and a great adventure playground at Hainault Country Park. Play Area at Hainault Forest Hanningfield Reservoir, CM11 1WT   Hanningfield Nature Reserve has fantastic woodland walks around the reservoir. There is a Wind in the Willows  themed nature sculpture trail which children will love.   There are some great Easter holiday events this year including the Hoppy Easter Trail and much more: 8th and 15th - Wilder Holiday Club £37 10th and 16th - Pond Dipping £5.60 11th and 18th - Nature Tots Easter Special £8 19th - Eggscelent Easter Fun £8 Click Here to Book Events at Hanningfield Reservoir Harlow Town Park - Pets Corner CM30 2QD Pets' Corner is a lovely little farm, which is located in the grounds of Harlow Town Park, Essex. There are also two great play areas at Town Park. This great farm is FREE to enter, donations are welcome to support the running of this farm. Easter Events at Pets Corner include an Easter Egg Hunt, Easter Crafts, Meet the Lambs, Meet the Easter Bunny and Keeper Talks. Did you know it is FREE  to enter Pets' Corner at Harlow Town Park! Read our post all about it HERE! High Woods Country Park High Woods Country Park is perfect for family walks due to the wonderful meadows, lakes and woodlands. High Woods Country Park also has nature inspired children's play areas. There is a great Easter Trail and these other events: 15th - Wild Woodland Fun £6.20 16th - Pond Dipping £6.20 Click Here to Book Events at High Woods Country Park Garons Park, SS2 4FA This Easter head to the Spring Community Event at Garons Park in Southend-on-Sea. The event is on 9th April. Expect food stalls, entertainment, and much more. Early tickets - Adults £2, Children £5. Click Here to Book Events at Garons Park Hopefield Animal Sanctuary, CM15 9BZ Easter at Hopefield includes meet and greet with the Easter Bunny, an Easter trail, and a daily schedule of educational animal talks & feeds! Entry to the animal sanctuary is £9. Click Here to Book Events at Hopefield Animal Sanctuary Hyde Hall, CM3 8ET  Easter at Hyde Hall! Join the giant Easter egg hunt! Children can also enjoy storytelling, a giant bubble show and the magical Guess How Much I Love You garden adventure trail. Entrance to the gardens Adults £15.85, Children £7.95, Under 5s Free 8th and 15th - Storytelling 9th - Outdoor Bubble Show Click to Book Events at Hyde Hall Langdon, SS16 6EJ   Langdon Nature Reserve has so many Easter events this year! Firstly, Essex Wildlife Trust Langdon Nature Discovery Centre is home to the Peter Rabbit wooden sculpture trail! There is also an Easter trail and the following Easter eve nts: 8th - Langdon Relaxed Early Opening for Families 9th - Nature Tots Easter Special £8 9th - Family Forest Fun 10th - Wilder Holiday Club £37 20th - Foraging Walk £5 Click to Book Events at Langdon The Naze, CO14 8LE The Naze nature reserve has beautiful, coastal walking trails. It is the home of the iconic Naze Tower. 6th 7th - Seashore Discovery £9 6th - Wild Beach £8 7th - Nature Tots £6 8th - Creativity by the Sea £8 8th - Seashore Science Lab £7 Click Here to Book Events at The Naze Nuclear Races, CM15 0LA Easter Obstacle Race - Take on the 2K woodland obstacle run, age 6+. This event runs on 8th, 10th, 15th and 17th April, £22 per person Priory Park, SS2 6NB  Wildlife Weekend at Priory Park runs between 12th and 13th April! There will be  animal handling, crafting, face painting, an activity trail and more! Click Here to Book Events at Priory Park Play Area at Priory Park T hurrock Thameside Nature Park, SS17 0RN   Essex Wildlife Trust's Thameside Nature Park is amazing for families, walkers and little explorers. The reserve has nature hides to sit and observe birds and nature from, walking trails and a visitor centre with a viewing deck. Small children will love the boat themed playground and there is also a wooden assault course for bigger kids. There are also great seasonal events! 7th - Mudpie Mondays £8 7th and 9th - Pond Dipping £5.60 9th - Family Forest Fun £8 14th - Nature Tots Easter Special £8 16th - Pond Dipping and MInibeast Hunting £8 17th - Bird of Prey Evening £12 18th - Easter in the Woods £9 Click Here to Book Events at Thurrock Thameside Play Area at Thameside Nature Discovery Park Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex

  • Colchester Castle Park is getting a NEW Playground! Choose your favourite design...

    The play area at Colchester Castle Park is getting a revamp! Colchester Council have revealed that the play area at Castle Park will be refurbished. Colchester Council are seeking the views of the people of Essex on the redesign. Your Favourite Design VOTE HERE Where is Colchester Castle Park? Castle Park is located centrally in the city of Colchester, Essex. 📍 Colchester Castle Park High Street Colchester CO1 1UG The current play area at Colchester Castle park   is split into different sections. There is an enclosed sandpit play area contains wooden ship themed play equipment. There are sand diggers, climbing frames, slides, balance equipment, seesaw and a wobble board. There is seating around the sandpit. Sandpit play area at Colchester Castle Park There is another playground next to the sand area. The play area is open. There are two ziplines, a large castle themed climbing frame with slides and lots of rope climbs and a separate spiral slide. Castle themed climbing frame There are several different types of swings catering for babies to teenagers. There is also some toddler playground equipment including a smaller climbing frame with slides, roundabout, balancing equipment, ride on jeep and trampoline. The play areas are overlooked by lots of picnic tables, benches and a large grass area. Spiral slide at Colchester Castle Park When will the refurbishment of Colchester Castle Park take place? Construction of the new playground is set to begin by the end of September 2025, and the playground is scheduled to open in November 2025. Castle Park Playground Renovation - Choose your favourite design Four playground designs for Colchester Castle Park have been released by Colchester City Council. You are invited to view the proposed plans and choose your favourite. You can vote for your favourite until Tuesday 6th May 2025. Your Favourite Design VOTE HERE You can read more about Colchester Castle Park by visiting our Castle Park Playground Guide . Looking for more great playgrounds in Colchester ? Why not check out these posts: Stanway Lakelands Centre Boxted Park Chappel Viaduct Playground High Woods Country Park More Playground News? Valentines Park is getting a new LIDO! Check out the Parks of Essex Directory - A-Z of over 100 Essex parks

  • The Wick Country Park, Wickford

    The Wick Country Park has a playground, easy access trails and beautiful lake. Play Area Currently CLOSED  as of April 2025 Where is The Wick Country Park? 📍The Wick Country Park Off Tresco Way Wickford SS12 9GP Google maps link 🅿️ Parking - Where to park for The Wick Country Park Free parking. Small car park close to the entrance of the Country Park - next to playground with a small amount of bays. Larger car park further into the Country Park. What play equipment is there at the Wick Country Park? There are several climbing frames with slides at the Wick Country Park. There is also a climbing wall, spinning equipment and lots of chain balancing equipment. There are swings including baby swings. The flooring is wood chip. There are benches inside the play area, which is also enclosed. Climbing frame at The Wick Country Park The Wick Country Park playground Walking Trails at the Wick Country Park The lake is wonderful and there are plenty of walking trails, perfect for wildlife spotting. Walks range from 0.5 miles to approximately 2 miles. Events at the Wick Country Park There are regular events organised by Friends of the Wick Country Park . Where to eat and drink at the Wick Country Park There are no catering facilities Are there toilets at the Wick Country Park? There are no toilet facilities at the Wick Country Park Other playgrounds close to the Wick Country Park Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by! Runwell Park, Wickford Memorial Park, Wickford Check out the Parks of Essex Directory - A-Z of over 100 Essex parks Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ❌ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌ 🚻 Toilets ❌ ♿ Accessible ❌ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ✅ ⏰ 30 minutes - 1 hour Post last updated February 2024

  • The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Wickford

    The Wickford Essex Park Guide If you are looking for things to do in Wickford with kids, we have you covered! Welcome to the Parks of Essex Guide to the Best Parks and Playgrounds in Wickford, Essex! There are so many great, free things to do in Wickford. Many of the playgrounds also have free parking. Here you will find information on great adventure playgrounds and country parks in Wickford and the surrounding area. Each park has a designated blog post with full reviews, parking details, toilets, photos and more information! Just 'Read More' about the park that interests you. This Chelmsford Playground Guide features the following playgrounds (click to scroll to the playground) : Memorial Park The Wick Country Park Currently CLOSED  as of April 2025 Runwell Park Hanningfield Reservoir (Wind in the Willows Trail) Hanningfield Waterside Park Memorial Park 📍Memorial Park Wickford Memorial Park Wickford SS11 8JE Memorial Park Memorial Park is our favourite park in Wickford. There are so many great things to do at Memorial Park and parking is free! At Memorial Park there is a great adventure playground suitable for all ages. There is also a cafe overlooking the play area (with great coffee), sports courts, minigolf and wonderfully maintained gardens with plenty of seating. There are two play areas at Memorial Park, which are next to each other. The smaller playground is suitable for babies and children up to junior age. There is climbing frame with slides, rope ladders, rope bridge. There are also toddler puzzles underneath the climbing frame. There is a nest swing and a really cool swing that can be used by baby and adult/bigger kid at the same time. There is a run up slide and ride on play equipment. The second play area is more challenging equipment and will entertain children up to teenage. There is plenty of climbing equipment. Memorial Park is also home to the Wickford Park Run. Read More about Memorial Park... The Wick Country Park Currently CLOSED  as of April 2025 📍The Wick Country Park Off Tresco Way Wickford SS12 9GP The Wick Country Park is a great day out. There is a playground, easy access trails suitable for all ages and abilities and a beautiful lake. The lake is wonderful and there are plenty of walking trails, perfect for wildlife spotting. Walks range from 0.5 miles to approximately 2 miles. The play area at the Wick Country Park is suitable for children of at least preschool age. There are several climbing frames with slides at the Wick Country Park. There is also a climbing wall, spinning equipment and lots of chain balancing equipment. There are swings including baby swings. The flooring is wood chip. There are benches inside the play area, which is also enclosed. Read More about The Wick Country Park... Runwell Park 📍Runwell Park Church End Lane Runwell SS11 7DP Runwell Park is good for children of all ages! There are two great play areas close to each other and a car park with free parking. There are two play areas at Runwell Park catering to a variety of ages. One play area is enclosed. There are climbing frames suitable for toddlers and small children and also a climbing frame suitable for preschoolers upwards. There is also a merry-go-round and swings. Outside of the enclosed play area, there is more play equipment. There is a rope bridge between two hills, and a large slide. There is also lots of open space for picnics, running and dog walks. Read More about Runwell Park... Hanniningfield Reservoir 📍 Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Centre Hawkswood Road Downham Billericay CM11 1WT Hanningfield Nature Reserve boast fantastic woodland walks around the reservoir. There is an abundance of nature which can be observed throughout the reserve, especially at the bird hides. There is a Wind in the Willows themed nature sculpture trail which children will love. Hanningfield Waterside Park 📍Hanningfield Waterside Park Giffords Lane South Hanningfield Road Chelmsford CM3 8HX Hanningfield Waterside Park has beautiful views across Hanningfield Reservoir and is a great spot for feeding the ducks. There is a playground and cafe. You can also walk through the woodlands to reach the Essex Wildlife Trust Centre and the Wind in the Willows Trail. Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex.  Over 100 parks and playgrounds are listed

  • Day Trip to Southend-on-Sea: Playgrounds Close to the Beach in Southend!

    The Southend-on-Sea Beach Playground Guide Who doesn't love a visit to the British seaside? Essex has many great destinations for family friendly day trips, including Southend-on-Sea! There are many beaches surrounding Southend-on-Sea including Shoebury Common, Bell Wharf Beach, Chalkwell Beach, Jubilee Beach, Thorpe Bay Beach and the Three Shells Beach and Lagoon. The 7 miles of sea front stretches from Leigh-on-Sea to Shoebury. Whether you are looking for a quiet stretch of beach on the Southend seafront, or are visiting to experience the hustle and bustle city beach, there is a beach to suit all. There are so many great things to do with children in Southend-on-Sea, There are great family friendly attractions on the seafront including Adventure Island, Adventure Inside and the Sealife Centre. Southend is home to the longest Pier in Europe. Southend Pier was voted the best Pier in the UK in 2025! Did you know there is a play area at the end of Southend Pier? If you are looking for free things to do in Southend-on-Sea, there are plenty of excellent playgrounds in Southend. You can check out our Top 10 Playgrounds in Southend-on-Sea. This Southend Beach Playground Guide features the following playgrounds (click to scroll to the playground): Three Shells Beach Playground Jubilee Beach Playground Southchurch Park Shoebury Common Playground Gunners Park East Beach Southend Pier Three Shells Beach, Southend-on-Sea 📍 Three Shells Beach Western Esplanade Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1EE Distance from the Beach: On the Beach Three Shells Beach Lagoon Southend-on-Sea Three Shells Beach Playground This beachside playground is located close to Southend's top attractions including Southend Pier (the longest Pier in Europe) and Adventure Island. The Three Shells Lagoon is very family friendly. The lagoon is always filled with water for splashing and the beach is sandy. There is a small playground most suitable for toddlers and preschoolers. There are two pieces of play equipment - a climbing frame and sand chute equipment. There are toilets and showers close by. There are several beach front food stalls selling traditional seaside food. 🅿️ Parking - where to park for Three Shells Beach Playground Southend Council Eastern Esplande Code 602102 Up to 1 hour - £2.80 Up to 2 hours - £5.50 Up to 3 hours - £8.30 Up to 4 hours - £11 Up to 5 hours - £13.80 Read More about Three Shells Beach... Jubilee Beach, Southend-on-Sea 📍 Jubilee Beach (Listed as Poodles Playpark on Google Maps)⁣ Southend-on-Sea⁣ SS1 2EL ⁣ Distance from the Beach: On the Beach This beach playground is located close to more Southend Attractions including the Sealife centre, water fountains, toilets and a heap of seaside food outlets. ⁣It is also less than five minutes walk from Adventure Island and Southend Pier. The playground is suitable for smaller children. There is a climbing frame with tunnels and pulleys, a separate slide and balancing equipment. Jubilee Beach Playground 🅿️ Parking - Where to park for Jubilee Beach Playground Southend Council Fairheads Green Car Park Code 602009 Up to 1 hour - £2.80 Up to 2 hours - £5.50 Up to 3 hours - £8.30 Up to 4 hours - £11 Up to 5 hours - £13.80 Read More about Jubilee Beach... Southchurch Park, Thorpe Bay 📍 Southchurch Park Northumberland Crescent Thorpe Bay Southend-on-Sea SS1 2XB Distance from the Beach: 2 minutes walk Southchurch Park is located only a stones throw away from Thorpe Bay Beach. The Park has several pitches and courts, a model boating lake and gardens. The large playground has equipment for toddlers and big kids too. There are many different climbing frames, swings, a roundabout, climb on equipment and lots of spinning equipment. 🅿️ Parking - Where to park for Southchurch Park Free Parking in car park on Northumberland Crescent There is also unrestricted on street parking around the park Read More about Southchurch Park... Shoebury Common Playground 📍 Shoebury Common Playground Shoeburyness SS3 9HQ Distance from the Beach: Next to the Beach (across a road) This playground is located close to the beach and Thorpe Bay's beautiful beach huts. The beach here is a mix of sand and pebbles. The playground has a nautical theme, there are boats, ship climbing frames and sea creature climb on equipment. There are a variety of swings, interesting sensory equipment and games. The playground is enclosed and there are plenty of picnic benches inside the playground. There is lots of open space around the playground and also outdoor gym equipment. Shoebury Common Playground Shoebury Common Playground 🅿️ Parking - Where to park for Shoebury Common Playground Southend Council Shoebury North Code 602014 Up to 1 hour - £1.10 Up to 2 hours - £2.20 Up to 3 hours - £3.30 Up to 4 hours - £4.40 Up to 5 hours - £5.50 Read More about Shoebury Common Playground... Gunners Park, Shoebury 📍 Gunners Park Warrior Square Road Shoeburyness SS3 9QB Distance from the Beach: 2 minutes walk This small playground is perfect for toddlers from toddler swings, climbing frames and a small merry go round. There are unique and interesting play equipment including a scoop pulley system and lots of educational interactive equipment including facial features and a clock. The car park is conveniently located next to the playground and Serendipity Cafe, inside the Cart and Wagon Heritage Centre. The Cafe serves good hot and cold food and is a community interest company. Adventurous toddlers will enjoy exploring the nearby Gunners Park Nature Reserve too. Gunners Park Playground 🅿️ Parking - Where to park for Gunners Park Playground Free parking in car park Read More about Gunners Park Toddler Playground... East Beach, Shoebury 📍 East Beach Shoeburyness SS3 9AB Distance from the Beach: Beachside If you are looking for a quiet beach, head to East Beach. You won't find traditional seaside attractions here, but you may find some beachy treasures here like seaglass and the occassional interesting pottery. The beach is a mix of stone and sand and it is a great crabbing spot when the tide is out. There is a large climbing frame with a slide here. Suitable for children 4+. East Beach Shoeburyness East Beach Playground 🅿️ Parking - Where to park for East Beach Southend Council East Beach Code 602016 Up to 1 hour - £1.10 Up to 2 hours - £2.20 Up to 3 hours - £3.30 Up to 4 hours - £4.40 Up to 5 hours - £5.50 Read More about East Beach Playground... BONUS! Southend Pier, Southend-on-Sea 📍 Southend Pier Western Esplanade Southend-on-Sea SS1 1EE Distance from Beach: 30 minute walk, 5 minute pier train ride Southend Pier is the longest pier in Europe, stretching 1.33m in length. Did you know there is a large sandpit at the end of Southend Pier? You can either walk the length of Southend-on-Sea pier, or catch the pier train. The pier is open every day fro m 10.15am until 6pm. Last entry to he pier is one hour before closing. You can buy your tickets on the day of your visit from the till points at the Visitor Information Centre or the Pier Walkway entrance. You can find pier entry and train prices on the Southend Pier website. As well as this giant sandpit, you can also find the RNLI shop, a cafe and food outlets at the end of Southend Pier. 🅿️ Parking - Where to park for Southend Pier Southend Council Eastern Esplande Code 602102 Up to 1 hour - £2.80 Up to 2 hours - £5.50 Up to 3 hours - £8.30 Up to 4 hours - £11 Up to 5 hours - £13.80 Need More Park Inspiration? Don't forget to check the Park Directory for more park inspiration - A-Z of over 100 Parks in Essex.  Over 100 parks and playgrounds are listed Last Updated April 2024

  • Langdon Hills Recreation Ground

    Langdon Hills has a wonderful recreation ground, where you can find a large playground with equipment for all ages, football pitches, basketball courts and a playing fields. Where is Langdon Hills Recreation Ground? 📍 Langdon Hills Recreation Ground Langdon Basildon SS16 6SW Maps Link 🅿️ Parking - Where to park Langdon Hills Recreation Ground Free Parking in large car park Playground at Langdon Hills Recreation Ground The playground at Langdon Hills Recreation Ground is a good size. There is a climbing frame with enclosed slide and challenging climbs. There is also a climbing triangle, long swing, nest swing, balancing equipment and zipwire. There is also a section of the playground for toddlers, which has a sandpit play area with a slide, small climbing triangle and baby swings. Where to eat and drink Langdon Hills Recreation Ground There is no cafe at Langdon Hills Recreation Ground Are there toilets at Langdon Hills Recreation Ground There are no public toilets at Langdon Hills Recreation Ground Other playgrounds close to Langdon Hills Recreation Ground Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by! Langdon Nature Discovery Centre Northlands Park, Basilon Victoria Park, Basildon   Howard Park, Basildon   Facilities   🛝 Playground ✅   ☕ Cafe ❌   ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌   🚻 Toilets ❌   ♿ Accessible ❌   🪑 Picnic Tables ✅   🐶 Dog Friendly ✅   ⏰ 30 minutes - 1 hour Post last updated April 2025

  • Swift Avenue Playground, Stanway Colchester

    The playpark at Swift Avenue in Stanway, Colchster was recently renovated. The playground has a some great fun equipment, with an animal theme - very fitting as this playground is close to Colchester Zoo. This playground is also only a short 10 minute walk or less than five minutes drive from the Stanway Lakelands Centre . The Stanway Centre has a great accessible playground, cafe and free, small sensory room. Why not make a morning/afternoon of it and combine a visit to the Swift Avenue Playpark and the Lakelands Centre in Stanway. Where is the Swift Avenue Playground Stanway 📍 1 Swift Avenue Stanway Colchester CO3 8ZE Google Maps Link   🅿️ Parking  - Where to park for Swift Avenue Playground On Street parking along Swift Avenue This is residential area - please park considerably What play equipment is there at Swift Avenue Playground The play area at Swift Avenue has an animal theme, which includes animals such as an elephant and a giraffe. There is a climbing frame with slide and a seperate frame with ramp access. There is spinning equipment, balancing equipment, an in floor trampoline, nest swings, baby swings and a tandem swing. The playground is predominately quite a spongy flooring and there is glass around the play equipment. There is a bin and bench inside the play area. This playground is enclosed. Are there toilets at Swift Avenue Stanway Playground No toilet facilities. Is there a cafe at Swift Avenue Stanway Playground No catering facilities. Other playgrounds close to Swift Avenue Playground? Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by!   Lakelands Centre Stanway Stanway Lakelands Centre Playground Castle Park, Colchester   Check out the Parks of Essex Directory - A-Z of over 100 Essex parks   Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ❌ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌ 🚻 Toilets ❌ ♿ Accessible - ❌ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ❌ ⏰ 30 minutes - 1 hour Post last updated December 2024

  • Shotgate Park, Wickford

    A great park with outdoor gym equipment, basketball courts children's play ground (for toddlers and bigger kids) and loads of dog friendly open space. Where is Shotgate Park? 📍 Shotgate Park Shotgate Wickford SS11 8QS Map Link 🅿️ Where to Park - Shotgate Park There is no designated car park at Shotgate Park On street parking is available in surrounding residential streets Where to eat and drink at Shotgate Park There is no cafe at Shotgate Park Shotgate Park Playground The play area at Shotgate Park is enclosed. There is a lot of space within the enclosed play area and there are also lots of benches. The play equipment is metal. It is quite dated but in fair condition. There are climbing frames, a slide, roundabout, swings and ride on equipment. Are there toilets at Shotgate Park There are no public toilets at Shotgate Park Other playgrounds close to Shotgate Park Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by!   Memorial Park, Wickford   Runwell Park, Wickford Nevendon Park, Wickford Meadowcroft Garden Centre, Wickford   The Wick Country Park, Wickford   Essex Wildlife Trust Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Park Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ❌ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌ 🚻 Toilets ❌ ♿ Accessible ❌ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ✅ ⏰ 30 minutes - 1 hour Last Updated April 2025

  • Hanningfield Reservoir, Billericay

    Hanningfield Nature Reserve boasts fantastic woodland walks around the reservoir. There is an abundance of nature which can be observed throughout the reserve, especially at the bird hides. The site is managed by Essex Wildlife Trust and there is an Essex Wildlife Trust visitor centre. There is a Wind in the Willows themed nature sculpture trail which children will love. Where is Hanningfield Reservoir? 📍 Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Centre Hawkswood Road Downham Billericay CM11 1WT Maps Link Where to Park - Hanningfield Reservoir Free car parking at the large car park. Where to eat and drink at Hanningfield Reservoir There is a shop, cafe and toilets inside the visitor centre at Hanningfield Reservoir. The cafe serves hot and cold drinks, snacks and sandwiches. Toilets at Hanningfield Reservoir There are toilets at Hanningfield Reservoir visitor centre, including accessible and baby change facilities. Play Area - Hanningfield Reservoir Waterside Park There is not a playground at the Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Center. However, you can walk through the woodland and around the Reservoir to Hanningfield Waterside Park, where there is a cafe and playground. Waterside Park is about 45 minutes walk through the woods. If you are driving, Waterside Park is a 5 minute drive away - Hanningfield Reservoir Waterside Park, CM3 8HX Read More about Hanniningfield Waterside Park Other playgrounds close to Hanningfield Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by!   Runwell Park, Wickford Memorial Park, Wickford   Hylands Park, Chelmsford   Check out the Parks of Essex Directory - A-Z of over 100 Essex parks   Facilities 🛝 Playground ❌ ☕ Cafe ✅ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ✅ 🚻 Toilets ✅ ♿ Accessible ✅ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ❌ ⏰ 1 hour+ Post last updated April 2025 Essex Wildlife Trust Website

  • Bridge End Gardens, Saffron Walden

    A short walk away from Saffron Walden High Street (in the opposite direction of the Common) is Bridge End Gardens. Bridge End Gardens is a lovely spot for families who enjoy nature walks. The public gardens are free to enter and are very well maintained. At Bridge End Gardens you can find several walking paths, vibrant flower beds and the maze. Where are Bridge End Gardens? 📍 Bridge End Garden Castle Street Saffron Walden CB10 1BE Maps Link 🅿️ Parking - Where to Bridge End Garden Catons Lane Car Park CB10 2DU Car Parking Charges Monday to Saturday 8am to 6pm. 1 hour - £1.20 2 hours -  £2.20 4 hours - £3.20 5 hours - £3.700 Sundays £1.50 MiPermit Code 737947 Play area at Bridge End Gardens On the outskirts of Bridge End Gardens you can find the Anglo-American Playground .  The playground at the Anglo-American Playground was refurbished by Saffron Walden Town Council in 2023 and remains in good condition. We recommend combining the two for a great day family friendly day out in Saffron Walden! Where to eat and drink Bridge End Gardens There is no cafe at Bridge End Garden. Saffron Walden High Street is very close by. There are plenty of independent restaurants as well as well known chains. If you are visiting Saffron Walden on a Tuesday or Saturday you can also head to Saffron Walden Market. Are there toilets at Bridge End Gardens There are accessible toilets and baby change facilities at Bridge End Gardens. Other playgrounds close to Anglo-American Playground Check out the Parks of Essex MAP to find more playgrounds close by! Anglo-American Playground One Minet Skatepark, Saffron Walden Saffron Walden Common Check out the Parks of Essex Directory - A-Z of over 100 Essex parks    Facilities 🛝 Playground ✅ ☕ Cafe ❌ ℹ Visitor Centre/Shop ❌ 🚻 Toilets ❌ ♿ Accessible ❌ 🪑 Picnic Tables ✅ 🐶 Dog Friendly ✅ ⏰ 30 minutes - 1 hour Last Updated March 2025

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